they have lots of groups. most people are locals who have their fun off campus.

Food and Dining

small, overcrowded cafeteria with little selection. very poor food for the price. would recommend traveling off campus for food.

Dorm Life

there is no housing.

Academic Rigor

there is lots of busy work. lecture is not as important compared to a 4 year institution. lots and lots of online work in english, financial, and social science classes.

Tips for prospective students

i would recommend that new students get very comfortable with moodle and webadvisor. it is important to engage your instructors and peers. do not procrastinate with school assignments, as well as, financial aid or registration.

In three sentences

a very good school for the money. has a very caring and helpful staff that want you to reach your goals. a great way to save while going to school.

Jaclyn from Candler, NC

The classes are challenging but manageable, and tuition is very affordable for anyone seeking a degree.

What to do for fun

Asheville-Buncombe Technical community college has many clubs and activities available for students, such as drama club, baking club and honor societies. There are also clubs geared toward degrees, such as dental assisting club and surgical technology club.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria food is delicious and there is always a variety!

Dorm Life

A-B Tech does not have dorms as it is a community college.

Academic Rigor

While some classes are much more challenging than others, all classes require outside study time and quick thinking for students.

Tips for prospective students

When you need help, ask for it. Your instructors care about your success and will help in any way they can.

In three sentences

This college deserves four stars. All instructors show extreme interest in each student individually and truly care about their ability to succeed. They all show that they believe in their students and are always supportive and available for help.

Student from Asheville, NC

04/17/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 of 34

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Bang for the buck

AB Tech is affordable, and if a future student doesn't have the money to go to school, it's okay. There are many options for students who can't afford it, I'm one of them. Something I love about Asheville is that there are many options for healthy eating. From restaurants to many local markets that offer affordable, organic and local grown food. One can't help but become Ashevillinized.

Asheville is known for it's array of fabulous dining options. Whenever you feel bored just try out any of these restaurants. The White Duck The Bier Garden Curate Zambra's Isa's Cafe Bistro Mayfels Farm Burger Salsa's Rocky's Hot Chicken Shack Early Girl Eatery Sunny Point Cafe The Oyster House Flavilla's Standard Pizza

Dorm Life

There are no dorms at this school.

Academic Rigor

AB Tech has a lot of service learning and volunteer opportunities. Involving yourself in service learning can help you get extra credit and it looks great on your student resume. The school has a lot of awareness groups and holds a lot of art performances. One of the great things about this school and Asheville, is that it encourages students to achieve their own social identity.

Tips for prospective students

Register as fast as possible, find out when registering begins and ends; don't wait for the last minute because classes fill up quick. Get all your paperwork needed for financial aid like previous tax forms. Talk to an adviser before you register for any classes. Don't stress, your not alone.

In three sentences

AB Tech is a great school if anyone is considering transferring to a university, AB Tech will work with students to make sure they are taking the proper prerequisites that are needed for graduation. The location is easy to access from surrounding areas since the school is close to the highway. Parking is okay, spots get filled up quick during peak class hours. There are also great programs for students who want to major in two year degrees like cosmetology or welding. The instructors are great and seem to always work with students who are willing to work hard.

PGardner

The campus and area are generally very safe in general, but security drives through regularly.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs and activites, some geared towards specific degrees and others that are open to all students.

Bang for the buck

You have access to many amazing people in the faculty/staff/students. You receive a quality education. The cost is low and even then there are so many grants and scholarships available to help you afford tuition and expenses.

What to do for fun

Read Hike

Food and Dining

A-B Tech has an award winning culinary team. They do the window market on Thursday morning where you can get amazing pastries, coffee, tea, and a variety of other items at a very low price. The culinary department also does a reservation based lunch for $25 on schedule, I havent' had the opportunity to attend, but I have heard many amazing things from the staff/faculty and other students. Also, the cafeteria is open Monday - Friday. They serve breakfast and lunch items that are quite yummy!

Dorm Life

There are no dorms.

Academic Rigor

The classes are challenging, but your instructors are there for you at A-B Tech.

Tips for prospective students

Ask for help. We're all afraid to at first, but the people here truely want to see you succeed. Check your student e-mail! This will save you so much confussion, try to make a habit of checking at least twice a day. Go talk to your advisors and instructors when you have any questions with your program or a specific class. Apply for scholarships! The application process is so simple and there are so many scholarships, many with low GPA requirements!

In three sentences

Amazing staff and faculty members. They are willing to help you with anything, you just have to show initiative. Wonderful and friendly advisors to help you plan a successful college experience.

Alison from Asheville, NC

I haven't heard of anyone having safety or security problems on campus. Generally people are very friendly and easygoing, and the security staff is attentive and helpful.

Greek Life

There are a few Greek organizations focused on academics, but I don't know much about them.

Clubs and Activities

The SGA is very supportive and encouraging toward student involvement. If there isn't already a club you want to work with, they will gladly help you start one!

Great for these types of students

Non-traditional (older, or with families, or with careers already). Anyone who's undecided on a major and wants to explore. Anyone who wants to get college transfer credits for 1/3 the cost of a public university. Anyone who wants to pursue a certificate or vocational program.

Bang for the buck

For the cost of attendance, they're awesome. There is a wide variety of courses available, so it's a great place for students to start exploring, even if they don't know what their major or field of interest will be.

What to do for fun

There are a decent number of opportunities for involvement with on-campus activities, Student Government, student clubs, study abroad programs, and the like, and the SGA is very welcoming and supportive of students who wish to start new clubs and organizations based on their interests. Since it's non-residential, maybe there aren't as many on-campus activities as at a traditional school, but there's stuff to do if you're not afraid to look for it!

Food and Dining

The cafe in Coman is not bad, basic grill food and sandwiches. The culinary department operates an early lunch market on Thursdays that I haven't been to but have heard is pretty awesome.

Dorm Life

There are no dorms, so this does not apply!

Academic Rigor

This is highly dependent on the professor. Some courses are pretty tough while others are a cakewalk, but there are definitely a lot of professors there that really care about what they do, and about their students, so the opportunities to learn are strong as long as you engage with them.

Tips for prospective students

Do keep an eye on WebAdvisor during the enrollment process, especially if you have financial aid, to make sure everything is getting done (keep a checklist)! Always follow up just in case something falls through the cracks. It's a big school, with lots of students and different courses. Be proactive about your education and you'll have fewer problems with administration and bureaucracy. Never be afraid to ask questions!

In three sentences

They make it very easy to get enrolled. The people are generally very friendly and helpful. The transfer program is apparently suffering as the school shifts focus more on to vocational programs.

Courtney from Canton, NC

11/26/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Academic Rigor

The academics used to be super easy. The school is now employing professors who have doctorates, as well as those that are first time college level professor= very passionate and invested in their jobs. Make sure you pay attention and figure out the professors teaching style and expectations.

Tips for prospective students

Study. Attend class- you will get ahead regardless of your performance if you just attend the classes.

In three sentences

Progressive education experience. Provides a challenging academic experience (depending on the professor) that aids in preparing students for a 4 year higher education experience. The professors of diverse academic programs, and in some cases even doctorates in the field, are required to adhere to the administration imposed guidelines that define the structure in which the class will be taught.

Anon from Swannanoa, NC

Tuition is very reasonable. Its the extra cost that cause you to break the bank.

Tips for prospective students

Start early and be prepared. Its inevitable that no matter how many times you think you have everything, they will add something additional you need. It all depends on who you speak with there...they will all tell you something different.

In three sentences

Good school once you jump through all the hoops! They have a monopoly in the area because the other schools are so far away. So you are very limited and they know they can string you along and put you on the 5 year waiting list for the programs.

Alexandra from Asheville, NC

The absolute best deal I've ever seen on college classes. It's affordable, and close to town. How can you ask for more?

What to do for fun

Hang out on the tree deck! There's always a great group of people when it's nice out! Also, get involved! The drama program is pretty cool, and there are so many clubs to be a part of, it's easy to feel like you're a part of something.

Food and Dining

The salad bar is amazing, plus the healthy snacks are a nice change from normal cafeteria food.

Academic Rigor

It's a challenge!

Tips for prospective students

Stay organized. With shorter classes, it's often easy to lose track of what's due, but if you can stay on top of your assignments, everything else is a piece of cake.

In three sentences

Small classrooms give excellent opportunities to be able to talk to your professor, and not feel too intimidated to ask questions. A lovely clean campus with plenty of welcoming benches and decks to enjoy the outdoors gives you a refreshing break between classes. Faculty is incredible, they're willing to help each student rise to the occasion and give their best.

Brandon from Asheville, NC

06/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

11 of 34

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Tips for prospective students

Take full advantage of everything that AB Tech has to offer. Use all the labs and tutors that you can to make sure that you are set up for success, as well as having a good relationship with the staff because they are the back bone of the college.

In three sentences

AB Tech has been a great choice for me to explore what I want to do with my future. The professors and staff at the school have gone above and beyond to help make sure that I have everything I need to be successful during my time here. I am very proud to say I will be an AB Tech graduate.

Taryn from Asheville, NC

04/18/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

12 of 34

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Bang for the buck

Asheville-Buncombe Community College is probably the BEST bang for your buck. They offer fabulous financial aid, and low yearly costs for classes and books. Enjoy affordable education through this college every year.

What to do for fun

Ashevile is full of exciting things to do. Downtown is a fun place to go shopping, listen to music, and more. Enjoy a weekly drum circle downtown, or go hiking on the weekends. Asheville has tons of great festivals and is rich in arts and culture.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is fabulous. Enjoy tasty treats, and great food here!

Dorm Life

As Asheville=Buncombe Technical Community College is a community college, there are no dorms available. However, there are great housing opportunities in the surrounding area of Asheville.

Academic Rigor

I am challenged daily at this college. With great teachers and exciting new information to learn, I enjoy the academic challenge that Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College offers.

Tips for prospective students

Go straight to the advisement office! The advisers at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College are fabulous and will always point you in the right direction. Check out the financial aid center and student resources as well.

In three sentences

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is a fabulous place to learn, excel, and grow. I am constantly increasing my knowledge base, meet people I never would have met before, and discover strengths about myself every day. This college offers an array of classes with wonderful teachers that will put the extra foot forward to help you learn and achieve your dreams.

Teri from Arden, NC

There are security officers as well as actually police on campus to regulate safety. They are also there if you lock your keys in your car or your car won't start.

Clubs and Activities

There are tons of clubs at AB Tech and they let anyone that is interested participate.

Great for these types of students

AB Tech has all sorts of students. Some high school students take college classes for credit. We have many artistic students as well.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I haven't noticed anything.

Bang for the buck

AB Tech is cheap compared to UNCA and a lot of students transfer after getting their A.A., A.F.A., or A.S. For the money I believe AB Tech to be a really great school that gets you ready for four year universities.

What to do for fun

The beach tree deck is beautiful in the spring and summer. The school also buys a lot of student artwork and hangs them in the buildings. Because Asheville is beautiful anyway the views are always nice.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria food is made fresh and vending machines are in pretty much every building, but the food can be expensive.

Dorm Life

AB Tech does not have dorms.

Academic Rigor

Some classes are really tough and some are easy as pie. It depends on the subject and the professor.

Tips for prospective students

Get to class early because parking is horrible. Stay caught up in reading assignments, especially with online classes.

In three sentences

The classrooms are small and personal. The professors are normally nice and will bend over backwards to ensure your success. The school is great for saving money before transferring to a four year university.

Felicia from Hendersonville, NC

01/30/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

14 of 34

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Campus Safety

I have never felt scared on campus for one minute, they always alert us right away and they will put us on lockdown when they feel it is best for our safety. It is generally in a safe area, and they are always patrolling the area.

Great for these types of students

I love that the school offers so many types of programs, they recently added to the technology program which I am in. They offer more spots than most for nursing, and dental hygiene programs.

Food and Dining

A downfall to this school is very limited food available. They have vending machines throughout, but no actual cafeteria.

Dorm Life

There is actually no dorms available on this campus.

Academic Rigor

This campus stays on top of exactly what the student is going for, and pushes each student to make them exceed where they think they should be .

Tips for prospective students

I would go here over the surrounding technical/community colleges, just make sure you study hard, and ask the teachers, start study groups, etc when help is needed. They have writing and math centers where people are available for help when you need it all completely free! Take advantage of that if you need!

In three sentences

I believe this school is convenient for people who live in the surrounding area, for they have multiple campuses. The staff is very helpful when I need them for any type of questions. They are always available, and there to help.

Ray from Asheville, NC

Campus safety was top notch. The campus police are always on patrol and only a phone call away. Very helpful. The college does drills and keeps students informed.

Bang for the buck

For the price, you can not beat the education. Some of the professors I had were top quality equivalent from a very expensive University.

What to do for fun

It is not far from downtown so you can always escape there in an eclectic coffee house, bar, restaurant etc. Plus being surrounded by such beautiful mountains you are literally minutes from awesome mtn biking or hiking.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria there is not the best, so if possible pack your own lunch or breakfast. However I love their fries with chipolte sauce as an in-between snack.

Academic Rigor

The Rigor depends on the classes, mine were all science so it was very intense, a lot of studying, and a lot of overlap which helped.

Tips for prospective students

Before you sign up for a class, investigate who your professor is and what level of knowledge you will need to be at for an accepting University. There are some instructors that can make a level 100 or 200 class and make it seem like graduate work.

In three sentences

I came to AB-Tech to take some prerequisite classes for an ABSN program at WCU. I was very impressed with the quality of professors in the Science department.

Sabrina from Asheville, NC

The programs at A-B Tech are highly accredited and are affordable. A-B Tech also offers a variety of grants and scholarships to help with the financial burden of attending school.

What to do for fun

Because A-B Tech is a community college, students do not have the dorm and typical college experience on campus. There are some groups who enjoy throwing frisbee or chatting on a lawn but other than that most students come to class and then head home to study.

Food and Dining

The main cafeteria on campus is well priced for the quality of the food which ranges from a salad bar to items from the grill. There are vending machines scattered across campus as well as snacks in the bookstore located in the student services building. Another option is to attend a meal prepared by the culinary students.

Dorm Life

A-B Tech does not offer on campus housing. There are however several housing options near campus.

Academic Rigor

There are a wide variety of classes offered at A-B Tech. Courses include everything from yoga classes to the Associate Degree Nursing program that I am completing. Speaking from personal experience, the rigor of my courses has been very challenging. It takes some effort on the student's part but the rewards are well worth it.

Tips for prospective students

Students hoping to receive parking spots close to their classes should arrive several minutes early as parking can be hectic. When buying books, browse around campus bulletin boards for deals on used books being sold by students. A final tip would be to take advantage of the resources available on campus such as the library, cafeteria, JobLink center, and computer labs.

In three sentences

A-B Tech offers an affordable and convenient option for students looking for an alternative to large universities. The staff is top notch as well as the facilities and resources. The college also offers a variety of class options including day, evening, and online classes.

Bethany from Mars Hill, NC

08/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

21 of 34

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Bang for the buck

For a two year school, you can't find better offerings in the state.

What to do for fun

The nearby Appalachian trail and Parkway offer scenic views and lots of hiking trails. The French Broad River can be used for boating, fishing, tubing and kayaking. Several live music events go on in the down town area every week. Movie theatres and playhouses are also in the area.

Food and Dining

As a tourist town, Asheville has several types of restraunts. There is everything from fine dining to fastfood within minutes of AB Tech.

Dorm Life

There is no on-campus housing. The Asheville area tends to have a higher cost of living than surrounding areas.

Academic Rigor

There are classes for every level of college skill, continuing education offerings, and even college credit classes for high school students.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for as many scholarships as you can. The AB Tech foundation has several every semester. Make use of the Holly library. It can be an oasis from a hectic schedule with several audio books and DVDs available to check out. Of course, there are also traditional library offerings such as research aids, books, and computer labs.

In three sentences

Asheville-Buncombe Technically Community College has convenient locations and class schedules. Several classes are even offered online. The advisers are friendly and ready to help with anything from declaring a major to scheduling classes.

Shannon from Canton, NC

07/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

25 of 34

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Campus Safety

Very safe campus

Great for these types of students

Being that the school is in Asheville, the vast majority of the student body are hippies, have dreadlocks, obsessed with all natural organic food & products, covered in tattoos, lots of piercings & many of them have those HUGE plugs in their ears that makes their lobes have these HUGE holes in them. Funny colored hair such as pink, purple, green, orange, blue, etc.. Very idealistic & think they have the world all figured out

Food and Dining

There is a small cafe. The food is not horrible but not the best in the world

Dorm Life

There are no dorms, hence no dorm life

Tips for prospective students

AB Tech is not an easy A kind of school. You have to work hard to earn those A's but do not be afraid to ask for help if you are struggling. The majority of the faculty want to see their students succeed.

In three sentences

AB Tech is a great school for the money, with lots of opportunity for career advancements and educations. There are many very excellent instructors, many who will go out of their way to help struggling students.

AB Tech has many different options to prospective students looking for a degree. However, the only problem is staying on top of the financial aid office. It is an extremely long and troubling process going through financial aid.

In three sentences

The dental assisting program is very educational and rewarding. The instructors are all highly qualified and very education. I would give my experience here a ten out of ten.

AB tech usually holds activity days for students. There is free food and music to all that come. The classes scheduled during the time of the event is often cancelled.

What to do for fun

There is lots to do for fun! Go for a game of tennis at the courts behind the Elm Building. Play hoops, and go to the gym to lift weights. You can even join a club to get involved! Enter the talent show, or volunteer for habitat for humanity. you can also hang out and chat with friends at the Tree deck in the warmth of the sun. You can discover the two story library if you love to read also!

Food and Dining

The food is great and affordable! I would give this a 10. They have food that is prepared by the culinary arts students, and everyone likes to go there and hang out. This is the hot spot for socializing and meeting new people. The cafe is not as large, but median size. There is a menu, hot bar, coffee machine, soda machine, and a large amount of space filled with tables to sit and enjoy your meals. They also have another area where they hold banquets for numerous events. These are often served by the culinary students as well. It is exceptionally delicious, and spectacular! In other words, it is a full fine dining experience!

Dorm Life

There are no on campus dorms. However, there are apartments close to the campus.

Academic Rigor

The only difficulties or challenges in this academic setting are the placement tests. They are designed to help you place into what math and English classes to assign you to. If people score low they are put into revaluation classes that are like refreshers to get ready for the college math or English classes. These refresher classes do not go towards your degree, but could help in the long run. So if your not a math person I suggest taking a refresher class. Another challenge is within the classroom environment. Some classes are a whole lot heavier than others. It depends on which professor is teaching the subject. So checking with advisers will help you to get an idea of the level of difficulty you will be dealing with.

Tips for prospective students

If you are interested in this college I highly recommend it. Once you get in the flow of the AB Tech campus you will find yourself at ease, and getting a full on college experience. There are over 60 degree programs and you can gain a associates and even transfer to senior institution's! If your looking for affordable tuition, then this college is for you! They also provide multiple schedules to work around your personal schedule. Check out their Website and see if you are interested! It does not hurt to check it out!

In three sentences

AB Tech is an affordable, and accredited technical college in Western North Carolina. There are people from all over the world that come here to study. However, these people, are earning their dreams.

TRINA from Asheville, NC

There is consistent patrol on campus with the campus police and campus security. They are always willing to help and always available.

Great for these types of students

All types of students fit in at AB-Tech.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

None.

Bang for the buck

The cost of AB-Tech is definitely well worth the money. I was surprised that it didn't cost more considering the education that I am getting.

What to do for fun

Asheville is full of all kinds of things to do for fun; there are places to bicycle, plenty of shops and baseball just to name a few.

Food and Dining

The food and dining is wonderful. The lady that runs the cafeteria owns her own successful cafe' in town.

Dorm Life

This school does not have dorms.

Academic Rigor

In each class the instructors cover all of the curriculum; so, it's fast paced but nothing that can't be completed successfully.

Tips for prospective students

The most helpful tip that I can give is to never be hesitate or afraid to ask questions of the financial aid office or the instructors.

In three sentences

AB-Tech is a wonderful college that is aimed at acquiring student success. I have had nothing but support from my instructors but also from the student services. If it wasn't for their support and helpful guidance I wouldn't be attending today.

Tania from Asheville, NC

Lots of campus activities, but in general, Asheville is just a great place to live. Downtown has lots of culture and free activities, plus you are surrounded by mountains.

Food and Dining

Cafeteria makes great food and there is a variety that meets everyone's needs.

Dorm Life

There is no dorm at AB Tech. But lots of opportunity for roommate situations posted all over campus.

Academic Rigor

The classes are intense and a good prep for a four year university. However, the professors will work with you if you have kids or work full time, or having difficulty comprehending material.

Tips for prospective students

Take ACA (study skills class and req for most degrees), COM 231 (public speaking class also req), and CIS 110 (Intro to computers but will help you master your power point, word, excell skills and you get a math credit) your first semester. This will get you off to a great start for the skills you will need to master the rest of your classes.

In three sentences

Excellent Community College that is accredited with all NC state Universities. The professors are compassionate and innovative. Tutoring services are free and flexible.

downtown asheville, nc is a fun and eclectic place with varied eating and gathering establishments, movie theaters, and more. you are minutes away from mountain biking, hiking, white water rafting and more in the beautiful smokey mountain national park.

Food and Dining

limited choices on campus, but close to multiple off campus sites.

Dorm Life

none

Academic Rigor

4/5 stars

Tips for prospective students

apply early to get the class schedule and desired classes.

In three sentences

community college is affordable. excellent way to earn credits before transferring to a 4 year program. close to home.

Edward from Asheville, NC

If at any time you feel unsafe there are onsite security officers willing to be of assistance.

Great for these types of students

Independent, goal oriented, and continuing education.

Bang for the buck

This is a great place to save some money and get a quality education

What to do for fun

Join a bluegrass jam, get involved in the green campus coalition, and many other organizations.

Food and Dining

Decent food, and many vending machines.

Dorm Life

No dorms

Academic Rigor

Depending on what curriculum you intend to take it can be highly rigorous as well as fulfilling.

Tips for prospective students

Register early, and research your teachers before you enroll.

In three sentences

Ab Tech is a good school for increasing your education. Many may choose to attend to shorten their time at a 4 year university, or to get up to date education for present employment. They are one of the few schools that offers a Sustainable program.

Diana from Fairview, NC

Anyone who wants to save money and stay in Asheville in order to get some education for a new job or to take general education courses before transferring to a university.

Tips for prospective students

This is a very respectable two-year school and offers many programs where you can go straight into a job without transferring to a four-year school. If you wish to transfer to a four-year school there are three programs you can complete and many classes offered that will transfer.

Bang for the buck

Very affordable although the tuition did go up $10 since the cut backs from the government.

Am enjoying being here

It's a really student-friendly campus and provides many services to help you succeed.

Am learning a lot

Each class brings its own new experiences to learn about college and the class as well as learning about myself.

Meghan from Asheville, NC

04/07/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
34 of 34

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Great for these types of students

A-B Tech is great for students who need a flexible schedule. I took their 4 week English 111 class and it was a real time saver. The instructors and advisers are willing to work with you when you can be on campus instead of making you come in on a day you don't have classes.

Tips for prospective students

Talk to financial aid and your adviser early so you can register when you're ready. The advisers are really good at helping you set up a plan, and none of them will push you to take too many classes.

Bang for the buck

A-B Tech is cheaper than UNC and other schools I have checked into around here by about 50 dollars a credit. By paying less I am also getting the education I need and I know if i transfer to a University I will be on the same academic level in classes as the other students.

Am enjoying being here

College is a lot different than high school and I enjoy being in a classroom where people want to learn, not just there because they have to be.

Am learning a lot

I am learning a lot in my classes and a lot about my college experience in general. Everyone it really helpful and the teachers are great!

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